Hilda Atkinson
Hilda Elaine Atkinson, of Signal Mountain, Tennessee, passed away to be with her Lord and Savior on June 20, 2023, at the remarkable age of 97.
As the younger of two girls, Hilda was born in Hopkinsville, Ky., to Orville Roosevelt and Avis Adams Henderson. She was a lifelong learner, graduating from Hopkinsville Business College and Bethel Women’s College, and furthering her education at the University of Kentucky and the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga.
On June 8, 1948, Hilda married the love of her life, Frank W. Atkinson in Hopkinsville. Upon moving to Lexington, Hilda worked at a local law firm and bank to support them as Frank completed his degree at the University of Kentucky. She was an advocate and supporter of Frank throughout their marriage, most recently serving as his caregiver for 12 years before his passing in 2017. Hilda just celebrated their 75th wedding anniversary earlier this month.
Upon moving to Signal Mountain, Hilda and Frank joined Signal Mountain Baptist Church where she remained an active member for more than 60 years. At the church, she served as Sunday School teacher, the president of WMU, circle leader, choir member, GA leader, a part of the Wednesday night kitchen group, and much more. A woman of steadfast faith, Hilda loved the Lord and served Him and His people always.
Hilda was a loving mother to her two children, Andy and Hillaine. Her love for her children and her community led her to volunteer often. She served as a Girl Scout leader, Cub Scout Den mother, and a PTA member. She was an active member and officer of the Signal Mountain Community Guild in the Literature Department and Guild Gardeners; in 1972, the Guild honored her as “Woman of the Year.” She volunteered as a docent at Houston Museum and the Chattanooga Regional History Museum; as a Precinct Chairman for many years for the Elections Board; and was a proud member of the NCHA Cherokee Campers for 45 years. After raising her family, Hilda worked as a realtor for Huffaker and Associates, helping many find their own forever homes.
Hilda was an artist, skilled in painting, sewing and needlework. She was also an avid collector of teddy bears and dolls—above all, she loved her Barbies. She served as president, treasurer, and program chairman of the Chattanooga Doll Club (UFDC Region 8), where she was a member for more than 40 years and made many dear friends. She was known throughout the Southeast for her ability to restore and repair antique dolls. Hilda also enjoyed gardening and especially loved her roses and native Tennessee wildflowers. She and Frank were world travelers, and together, visited all fifty states and national parks, oftentimes with their children in the family’s camper.
She was preceded in death by her parents, O.R. and Avis; sister and brother-in-law, Helen and Cliff Jones; and her husband, Frank, among other loved ones.
Hilda is cherished and missed by her loving family: son, George Andrew “Andy” Atkinson and his wife, Sandra; daughter, Hillaine Atkinson Nanney and her husband Ed; four grandchildren: David Atkinson (Rachel), Brian Atkinson, Addison Nanney (Kate), and Katherine Nanney; great-grandchildren Sawyer Atkinson and Ruby Atkinson; and her extended family.
A special word of thanks to those who provided loving and attentive care to Hilda while at Alexian Assisted Living, CHI Memorial Hospital-Hixson, and Life Care Center of Hixson.
Visitation will be held on Monday, June 26, from 10 a.m. until funeral service time at 12 p.m. at Hamilton Funeral Home. Burial be will held at 1:30 p.m. at Chattanooga National Cemetery where Hilda will be laid to rest with her beloved Frank.
In lieu of flowers, donations can be made to The Salvation Army, St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, or The Point Church at Signal 939 Ridgeway Ave., Signal Mountain, Tn. 37377.
Arrangements are entrusted to Hamilton Funeral Home, 4506 Hixson Pike, Hixson, Tn. 37343. 423 531-3975.